GNU Octave
Development
A free language for numerical computing, largely compatible with MATLAB.
Open Source
Available for Windows, macOS, Linux
Python
Popular programming language for scripting, data and automation.
Official source: python.orgLast verified: awaiting review · How we check softwareDeveloper: Python Software Foundation
What is Python?
Python is a free, open-source programming language maintained by the Python Software Foundation. It's known for readable code, and it's used for everything from small automation scripts to web applications, data analysis and machine learning.
Its standard library covers many common tasks, and hundreds of thousands of extra packages are available from the Python Package Index (PyPI). Official installers are available for Windows and macOS from python.org, and most Linux distributions include Python.
Key features
- Huge standard library
- pip package manager
- Great for learning
Who should use Python?
- DeveloperA versatile language for automation, web back-ends, data work and AI.Build a setup for this
- StudentOne of the most beginner-friendly programming languages, and widely taught.Build a setup for this
Supported platforms
Pricing & licence
Open Source Free and open source
Open source: the source code is public, so anyone can inspect it, and it's free to use.
Prices change, so check python.org for current pricing.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Beginner friendly
- Used everywhere
Cons
- Managing versions can get messy
Installation
Windows
Windows · Winget
PS> winget install --id Python.Python.3.13 --exact --source wingetLinux
Linux · APT (Ubuntu and Debian-based)
$ sudo apt install python3Package names were checked against each official package registry, and commands install the same software as the official download. Only run commands you understand.
Alternatives to Python
No alternatives listed yet.
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Python FAQ
Which version of Python should I install?
The latest stable Python 3 release. Python 2 reached end of life in 2020 and should no longer be used.
Should I add Python to PATH on Windows?
If you want to run Python from the command line, yes. The Windows installer includes an option to add python.exe to PATH.
Is Python free?
Free and open source. It's also open source.
Which platforms does Python support?
Python is available for Windows, macOS and Linux. It isn't available for Android and iPhone & iPad.
Can I install Python with Winget?
Yes. Run "winget install --id Python.Python.3.13 --exact --source winget" in PowerShell or Windows Terminal. The package ID was checked against Microsoft's official Winget repository.
Can I install Python with Homebrew?
Yes. Run "brew install python@3.13" in Terminal.
Where can I download Python safely?
From the official website, python.org. Aptorise links only to official sources and never hosts installers.